SSCS passes simpler 'respect' resolution

2/28/2017

By Patsy Nicosia

Sharon Springs Central School followed the lead of its neighbor to south in adopting a more readable version of the "respect" resolution Monday.
Using a statement crafted by Cobleskill-Richmondville in support of supervisors' "Working Toward Respect For All" resolution, adopted two weeks ago, the SSCS Board of Education pledged to promote inclusiveness and respect-"something we're practicing every day," pointed out President Laura Jackson.
In the days before Schoharie County supervisors' vote on a resolution from Schoharie resident Glen Sanders written in response to "build the wall" chants at C-R, SSCS took no action on a request from a half-dozen community members that it lend its support to the effort.
Board members said Monday that while there was nothing in Mr. Sanders' resolution that they objected to, they felt it was too wordy and they wanted more time to consider it.
Board members considered both Mr. Sanders' and C-R's resolutions, agreeing that they both essentially say the same thing before unanimously voting to adopt C-R's.
"If we're going to be in the business of communicating with people, it has to be with words we all understand," said board member Renee Bade, who said Mr. Sanders' resolution has too many "whereases."
The resolution adopted Monday reads:
"We commend the Schoharie County Board of Supervisors for promoting inclusiveness and respect, as we have done and will continue to do at Sharon Springs Central School.
"Our mission is to educate, inspire and empower our students to become creative, engaged and productive citizens. That mission is driven by the core beliefs that all students be welcomed in a safe, positive, respectful and supportive environment, and that we value integrity, diversity and respect for all."